WASHINGTON, D.C. – House Ways and Means Chairman Kevin Brady (R-TX) today delivered the following opening statement at a Ways and Means Committee markup of tax and trade enforcement proposals.

Remarks as prepared for delivery:

“Good afternoon. Today’s markup is another example of our Committee’s dedication to advancing the priorities of the American people through a regular, open legislative process. We have eight bills before us for consideration – seven tax bills and one trade enforcement bill. All of these are smart solutions driven by Members of Congress that will deliver results for the people and communities we serve.

“With so much on the docket today, I’ll be keeping my opening remarks short. But I do want to highlight a couple of the bills we’ll be considering, including Congressman Dold’s ‘United States Appreciation for Olympians and Paralympians Act.’ This legislation addresses the tax treatment of medals or other prizes awarded to Team USA athletes during the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

“Team USA athletes train for years to have a chance to compete in the Olympic and Paralympic games. This comes at a great personal sacrifice and – often times – a significant family expense.

“Yet, after these athletes excel in their sport and bring home a medal, the IRS welcomes them home with a tax bill. Congressman Dold’s legislation would change this and ensure that Team USA athletes will never face a larger tax burden for winning Olympic and Paralympic medals.

“In addition to this bill, I want to draw attention to H.R. 2285, the ‘Prevent Trafficking in Cultural Property Act‘ – bipartisan trade enforcement legislation authored by Congressman Bill Keating.

“This bill improves U.S. Customs enforcement against trafficking in cultural property to prevent stolen or illicit cultural property from financing terrorist and criminal networks.

“At a time when our nation faces many serious national security threats, we must do everything we can to cut terrorists off from the resources needed to impose harm on Americans and our allies. This legislation will help us do that.

“Finally, I want to thank all the Members who crafted the legislation before us today for your hard work and leadership. This collection of targeted, bipartisan solutions will help address some significant challenges facing our communities. And, by passing these bills, we can take meaningful action to improve the lives of millions of Americans.”